GM George McPhee states that The Golden Knights are Ready to Trade a Defenseman

With the new season approaching to the fans and the players in a very fast manner, many are asking themselves if the general manager of the Golden Knights from Vegas made the best decisions regarding the expansion draft. As of now, the Golden Knights odds for this season seem to reflect the same idea in a very clear manner. The newest team in the NHL has conducted a range of trades with the purpose of not having to bring on board some players. The decision was made to do this so that they could load up with players when the draft picks come about. However, this led to the Golden Knights being a team that is very heavy on the defense front.

As of now, the Vegas team has 11 defensemen on their roster. Out of these, there is only Shea Theodore who is exempt from the waivers. Right now, their perfect scenario would be to trade some of their defensive players for additional picks. This is also something McPhee addressed when he gave an interview on Tuesday on Hockey Central. In the interview, he acknowledged that his team will probably have to do something to address the problem. He also said that he started receiving calls from clubs which expressed a desire to attain a new defenseman. In other words, the negotiations are in progress, but the team’s general manager said that he would have to take some time to let everyone know what is going down.

As of now, the same time will likely last for about four games. But, out of the eleven blue liners located on the team’s roster, 5 will attain the UFA status before the next summer. Additionally three are due to become RFAs. In the case Nate Schmidt, Brayden McNabb, Shea Theodore and Jason Garrison are not traded, these will most likely attain the lineup spots. With that in mind, Garrison appears to be a great alternative for a trade candidate, especially because of the stage in his career. The upcoming trade will definitely move someone out of Golden Knights and Garrison seems like a great candidate for a swap.

McPhee acknowledged that there were discussions that are ongoing and that his team is interested in moving one defenseman out of Vegas. Right now, the Golden Knights are about to host their very first pre-season match on Tuesday Night at the T-Mobile Arena. Here, the most recent collection of NHL spectators and fans will get to see their team. A range of professional conflicts is still raging between different teammates. According to the McPhee, this is the reason for the 3-1-0 results so far.

Still, the team’s general manager noted the strong buzz in the air thanks to the new team in town. McPhee said that this is a big deal in Vegas where the Tuesday night game was sold out, along with the upcoming two games that will have the same fate. All of this is a fine example of the love affair that the Golden Knights and their city of Vegas are having right now. Most are hoping that it will stay this way once the NHL begins its full 2017-18 season.

I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!